Handlebar, grip and binding assemblies

ABSTRACT

This application describes a handlebar and handlebar end assembly for effectively locking a handlebar end to a handlebar without the use of tools or instruments. The handlebar and handlebar end assembly according to an embodiment comprises a knob, threaded stud, non-threaded expansion retaining block, threaded expansion retaining block and handlebar. According to another embodiment, a wakeboard/water sports binding/boot attachment system for more securely attaching a wakeboard/water sports binding/boot to the ski/board is disclosed herein.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/528,279 filed Jul. 3, 2017, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to the field of sporting apparatus, and more particularly to apparatus for use during wakeboarding, waterskiing or other water sports.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Handlebars for wakeboarding and waterskiing have been introduced heretofore, but are in general lacking of many properties that make the adjustment and securing of the handlebar to a rope or tow line difficult, if not impossible, without certain tools and other apparatus that a wakeboarder or waterskiier does not readily have when he or she is in the water, on a boat, etc. Furthermore, prior art assemblies make it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to change grips or other accessories associated with the handlebar assembly, thereby limiting the experience for the user. Similar disadvantages exist with adjustable handlebar assemblies for use with other sporting equipment as well, including but not limited to kite-surfing, windsurfing, road and mountain bicycling, to name a few.

It would therefore be advantageous to provide a handlebar assembly that may be easily adjusted, assembled, disassembled, reassembled, reconfigured or otherwise modified by a user without the need for specialized tools or instruments. In a preferred embodiment, the handlebar assembly comprises one or more tool-less bar ends.

It would also be advantageous to provide a tool-less handlebar and handlebar end assembly for effectively locking a handlebar end to a handlebar without the use of tools, and that otherwise significantly reduces, if not eliminates, the problems noted above. It would also be advantageous to provide a handlebar assembly that permits attachment to a wide variety of other sporting equipment handlebars, either with or without the need for tooling, and which permits a user to attach accessories to the handlebar or handlebar assembly with greater ease and flexibility than allowed by prior art devices.

Similarly, boots and binding systems for wakeboarding and waterskiing have been introduced heretofore, but are in general lacking of many properties that present difficulties for a wakeboarder or waterskiier to quickly and securely attach a boot to the board/ski, or adjust the orientation of the bindings relative to the board/ski relative to the user's preferences. Similar difficulties exist with other related sports, such as snowboarding, Nordic and cross-country skiing, etc.

It would therefore be advantageous to provide a binding system comprising a plurality of vertical teeth oriented to create a secure attachment between a binding and a boot. It would also be advantageous to provide a binding system that interfaces with a preferred boot design for use in particular water sports or other sporting activities. Even more specifically, it would be beneficial to provide a wakeboard/water sports binding/boot attachment system for more securely attaching a wakeboard/water sports binding/boot to the ski/board by organizing a plurality of adjustable teeth in a vertical fashion, rather than horizontally, to secure a portion of the boot to the plurality of adjustable teeth, and that otherwise significantly reduces, if not eliminates, the problems noted above.

Other advantages over the prior art will become known upon review of the Summary and Detailed Description of the Invention and the appended claims.

SUMMARY OP THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the invention generally relates to a novel handlebar assembly for use in a variety of sport-related activities, including watersports. In embodiments, the handlebar assembly comprises a handlebar assembly, which comprises a knob (10), threaded stud (20), non-threaded expansion retaining block (30), threaded expansion retaining block (40) and handlebar (50).

One object of the present disclosure is to provide a handlebar and handlebar end assembly for effectively locking a handlebar end to a handlebar without the use of tools.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a handlebar and handlebar end assembly that locks or otherwise secures the handlebar end to the handlebar.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a handlebar and handlebar end assembly that allows for quick exchange of various handlebars.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a handlebar and handlebar end assembly that eliminates the need to use tools to attach or remove the handlebar end.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a handlebar and handlebar end assembly that may be utilized upon various types of handlebars, tow ropes and similar sporting equipment.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a handlebar assembly that has locking teeth or similar no-slip connectors for securing the handlebar assembly to an existing or new handlebar for use with sporting equipment.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a retaining bracket and retaining band that permits adjustment of the handlebar assembly without causing loss of or unwanted movement of parts during adjustment.

It is a further object of the present disclosure to provide the handlebar assembly described herein for use with a variety of different sporting equipment handlebars, either with a simple tool or without the need for tooling, and which otherwise permits a user to attach the handlebar assembly and potentially other accessories to the handlebar with greater ease.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a binding assembly is described for use with various types of watersport equipment. In embodiments, the binding assembly comprises a binding attachment interface, which in turn comprises a plurality of vertical teeth, which provides an efficient, fast and secure connection between a boot and a wakeboard or waterski base plate/chassis or other article of sport equipment. In another aspect, the binding system comprises a mounting bracket for use with a wakeboard or water ski.

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a wakeboard/water sports binding/boot attachment system for more securely attaching a wakeboard/water sports binding/boot to the ski/board by organizing the adjustment teeth in a vertical fashion, rather than horizontally.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a wakeboard/water sports binding/boot attachment system that stays secure at a desired angle even when attachment screws partially loosen.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a wakeboard/water sports binding/boot attachment system that reduces the risk of injury by staying secure at a desired angle even when screws partially loosen.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a wakeboard/water sports binding/boot attachment system that doesn't become comprised during a hard impact when attachment screws are tight or when attachment screws partially loosen.

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become obvious to the reader and it is intended that these objects and advantages are within the scope of the present invention.

To the accomplishment of the above and related objects, this invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings, attention being called to the fact, however, that the drawings are illustrative only, and that changes may be made in the specific construction illustrated and described within the scope of this application.

The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present disclosure is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention. Additional aspects of the present disclosure will become more readily apparent from the Detailed Description, particularly when taken together with the drawings.

The above-described benefits, embodiments, and/or characterizations are not necessarily complete or exhaustive, and in particular, as to the patentable subject matter disclosed herein. Other benefits, embodiments, and/or characterizations of the present disclosure are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, as set forth above and/or described in the accompanying figures and/or in the description herein below. However, the claims set forth herein below define the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosures.

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is an exploded lower perspective view of the handlebar assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This view shows an exploded lower perspective view of components included in the handlebar assembly;

FIG. 2 is an exploded side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1. This is an exploded side view of components included in the assembly in a disassembled state;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1. This is a side view of components in an assembled state and also shows the action required to secure the bar ends to the handlebar;

FIG. 4 is an upper perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1. This view shows an upper perspective view of the bar end in an assembled state, prior to coupling with the handlebar;

FIG. 5 is a front and rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 1. This is a front and rear view of components included in the assembly;

FIG. 6 is a cutaway view of the embodiment of FIG. 1. This is a cut away view demonstrating how the threaded stud is received by the threaded expansion retaining block;

FIG. 7 is a detailed perspective view of another embodiment of the present disclosure. This view shows an assembled view of components for a tool-less or tooled handlebar assembly, which may be used for quickly adjusting the knob to accommodate different styles of handlebars;

FIG. 8 includes perspective views of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, including a tool-less and tooled assembly;

FIG. 9 is an upper perspective view of another embodiment of the present disclosure. This view illustrates the mounting of the wakeboard or waterski boot/binding to a wakeboard or water ski;

FIG. 10 is an upper perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 9. This view shows a detailed view of the engagement between the wakeboard or water ski base plate/chassis and the vertical teeth mounting bracket;

FIG. 11 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 9. This view shows the assembly of the mounting bracket and wakeboard or water ski binding base plate/chassis;

FIG. 12 is a rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 9. This view shows an exploded view of the mounting bracket, mounting screw/fastener and wakeboard or water ski binding base plate/chassis;

FIG. 13 is an exploded upper perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 9. This perspective view demonstrates the different orientations of the teeth; and

FIG. 14 is an exploded upper perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 9. This is an exploded view showing another variation of the vertical teeth on the lower side of the wakeboard or water ski base plate/chassis.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION A. Overview

FIGS. 1-8 depict embodiments of the present disclosure. Reference characters denote various elements throughout the several views of the handlebar assembly, in embodiments. In particular, FIGS. 1-6 illustrate a knob (10), threaded stud (20), non-threaded expansion retaining block (30), threaded expansion retaining block (40) and handlebar (50). Each component is described below.

B. Knob

This structure acts as the portion of the handle for actuating and adjusting the handlebar assembly by hand, without a tool or instrument, as referenced in the Summary above. In one application, the knob may be rotated by hand in a clockwise or counter-clockwise rotation to perform the threading, tightening and locking motion of the assembly.

The knob (10) of this assembly acts as the handle for which the user will grab then turn to fasten, tighten or lock the bar end assembly inside the handlebar (50). The outside of the knob (10) can be any size, shape or length, but is preferably sized to accommodate gripping by hand during the threading, tightening and locking process described above. The knob (10) can be made of any solid material strong enough to hold the threaded stud in place.

The inside cavity of the knob has a cylindrical barrel like structure for the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) to fit over and then rotate as the assembly actuates. The outside dimensions of this cylindrical barrel preferably conform to the inside dimensions of the Non-threaded expansion block (3). In one embodiment, this conformity provides for an interference or near-interference fit.

C. Threaded Stud

The threaded stud is preferably a male threaded post that may be inserted and coupled with a corresponding female threaded expansion retaining block (40). The threaded stud is preferably used to complete the threading, tightening and locking process described above, which moves the threaded expansion retaining block (40) along the threads towards the knob (10). This process in turn causes the threaded stud to slide against and compress the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) against the inside walls of the handlebar (50).

The threaded stud (20) is preferably held securely by the knob so that when a user turns the knob, the threaded stud (20) turns along with the knob.

The threaded stud (20) is preferably cylindrical in shape and is long enough to extend through the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30), and for inserting into the threaded expansion retaining block (40). The threaded stud (20) has one or more threads that run along the length of the cylinder, similar to a machine screw. The one or more threads can vary in size, and serve to retain the screwing function needed to pull the threaded expansion retaining block (40) closer to the knob (10) when the knob (10) and threaded stud (20) are turned.

D. Non-Threaded Expansion Retaining Block

This component preferably resides between the compression of the knob (10) and the threaded expansion retaining block (40) when assembled. The angled face of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) preferably contacts the angled face of the threaded expansion retaining block (40) and permits each component to move opposite the other to perform the tightening and locking motion. The outside surface of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) is forced against the inside wall of the handlebar (50) to perform the tightening and locking motion.

In embodiments, the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) is positioned between the knob (10) and the threaded expansion retaining block (40) in an assembly state, and assists in the locking motion. The non-threaded expansion retaining block is essentially unrestricted until the knob (10) is turned enough so that the threaded expansion retaining block (40) moves up the threads enough to come in contact with the angled face of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30). At this point, the outer faces compress against the inner wall(s) of the handlebar (50), thereby securing the assembly.

The outer surface(s) of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) are preferably configured in a way so that the surface(s) come in contact with and create friction against the inner wall(s) of the handlebar (50) to complete the tightening and locking action of the assembly. The outer dimensions of this structure need not match the inner dimensions of the handlebar (50) as long as there are points of contact with the inner walls of the handlebar (50). The inner dimensions of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) preferably conform to the outer dimensions of the knob's (10) inside cylindrical barrel so that this structure can fit over and rotate around the barrel of the knob (10). The inside dimensions of this structure should be large enough to allow the threaded stud (20) to move freely as the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) slides as the locking action described above is performed.

E. Threaded Expansion Retaining Block

In embodiments, the threaded expansion retaining block (40) is coupled with the threaded stud (20). When the tightening motion of the assembly occurs, the threaded expansion retaining block (40) moves toward the knob (10) along the threads in a tightening fashion. The angled face of the threaded expansion retaining block (40) preferably rests against the angle face of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30). The threaded expansion retaining block (40) then slides up the face of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) and compresses against the inside walls of the handlebar (50) to aid in the tightening and locking motion of the assembly.

The threaded expansion retaining block (40) thereby acts as a compressing body, which by moving up the threaded stud (20), as the assembly is actuated, achieves the locking process described above. During this locking process, the threaded expansion retaining block (40) translates along the one or more threads until contacting the non-threaded expansion retaining block's (30) angle face. At this time, as the action of the assembly continues, this structure slides upward along the angled face of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) until the outside surfaces contact the inner wall(s) of the handlebar (50) to complete the tightening and locking process.

The outer surface(s) of the threaded expansion retaining block (40) are preferably oriented so that these surface(s) come in contact with and create friction against the inner wall(s) of the handlebar (50) to complete the tightening and locking process during assembly of the handlebar assembly. The outer dimensions of the threaded expansion retaining block (40) need not match the inner dimensions of the handlebar precisely, so long as there are points of contact with the inner walls of the handlebar (50). The inner dimensions of the threaded expansion retaining block (40) are preferably threaded to match or otherwise be coupled with the threads on the threaded stud (20) so that when the knob (10) and threaded stud (20) are rotated, the threaded expansion retaining block (40) moves (by rotational translation) closer to the knob (10).

F. Handlebar

This structure acts as a housing for both the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) and the threaded expansion retaining block (40). During the tightening and locking motion of the assembly, both expansion retaining blocks (30, 40) compress against the inside walls of the handlebar (50) to complete the tightening and locking motion of the entire assembly.

The handlebar (50) may also serve as the housing for the bar end assembly. When the bar end assembly is secured to the handlebar (50), the bar end assembly will lock to this structure. The handlebar (50) also serves as a handle for a non-specific object, and may receive accessories, grips and other articles at the user's preference.

The outside surface of the handlebar (50) is intended to be gripped by hand and act as a handle. The handlebar (50) assembly's outside dimensions can vary in both size and shape without impairing the function of the bar end assembly described above. The inside dimensions of the handlebar (50) preferably facilitate, but not necessarily match, the outside dimensions of both the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) and the threaded expansion retaining block (40) as long as there is contact between the outside of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30), the outside of the threaded expansion retaining block (40) and the inside wall of the handlebar (50).

G. Connections of Components and Sub-Components of Invention

In embodiments, the knob (10) connects to the threaded Stud (20) as shown in FIG. 2. The knob (10) connected to the threaded stud (20) inserts through the opening in the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30). The non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) slides onto and rests on the inside barrel of the knob (10). The threaded stud (20) held by the knob (10) then screws into the threaded expansion retaining block (40). The threaded expansion retaining block's (40) angled face preferably contacts the angled face of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30). The knob (10) and threaded stud (20) hold the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) and threaded expansion retaining block (40), and then may be inserted into the handlebar (50) as shown in FIG. 3. Various other aspects of the assembly of these components and sub-components is shown in FIGS. 4-6.

H. Alternative Embodiments of Invention

The expansion retaining blocks (30, 40) of the handlebar assembly may vary in shape, size and style, while still permitting the above-described expansion and contact with the inside walls of the handlebar (50). The material of these blocks can also perform the expansion functionality by flexing as each block is rotated or otherwise positioned against the inside wall of the handlebar (50).

The inside walls of the handlebar (50) of this assembly can vary in shape, size and style as long as these inside walls accept and facilitate the tightening and locking function of the bar end assembly.

The amount of parts in the assembly can be greater than described above as long as the assembly performs the same expansion action against the inside walls of the handlebar (50).

I. Operation of Preferred Embodiment

Methods of assembly, disassembly, reassembly and modification of the handlebar assembly are also contained herein. In one embodiment, the user first inserts the bar end assembly, which includes the knob (10), threaded stud (20), non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) and the threaded expansion retaining block (40), inside the handlebar (50). Next, the user turns the knob (10) in a direction to tightens the bar end assembly relative to the handlebar (50). This tightening motion moves the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) and the threaded expansion retaining block (40) so each moves along the other's angled face in opposing directions, as illustrated in the Figures and described above. This opposing expansion motion compresses the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) and the threaded expansion retaining block (40) against the inner walls of the handlebar (50) to complete the tightening and locking motion of the bar end assembly to the handlebar (50).

If the user wishes to remove, exchange or replace the existing bar end(s), the user turns the knob (10) in the direction which loosens the bar end assembly. This decreases the expansion movement of the non-threaded expansion retaining block (30) and the threaded expansion retaining block (40).

Additional configurations of the handlebar assembly according to another embodiment are shown and described in relation to FIGS. 7-8. According to this embodiment, the handlebar assembly may be tooled or tool-less. The assembly may be configured to accept a variety of different handlebars, including those used for sports other than watersports.

The assembly according to this embodiment preferably comprises a knob, a threaded shaft, a locking nut, one or more spring retaining bracket(s), and a retaining band as depicted, for example, in FIG. 7. The one or more spring retaining brackets preferably comprise locking teeth or similar contacting features, which are preferably arranged along an outer circumference of the spring retaining bracket(s) to improve the purchase between the assembly and the interior of a piece of sporting equipment, for example, a handlebar. In certain embodiments, the knob may be comprised of aluminum, aluminum alloy or equivalent metal and may further comprise a gnurled surface for improved purchase by a user directly (i.e., without a tool). In certain embodiments, the threaded shaft permanently retains the knob so that the knob cannot be inadvertently separated from the threaded shaft, while in other embodiments the knob and threaded shaft are selectively coupled, such as by a threaded connection between the proximal end of the threaded shaft and the generally cylindrical barrel portion of the knob.

According to a preferred embodiment, in operation, the locking nut is allowed to translate along the linear axis of the threaded shaft, thereby increasing or decreasing (per the user's preference) the distance between the knob and the locking nut. This movement in turn increases or decreases the distance between the pairs of spring retaining brackets, as shown in FIG. 7. The retaining band is preferably made of a flexible material, and moves relative to the positions of the spring retaining brackets (expanding or contracting in diameter, depending on the increase or decrease in the distance between the spring retaining brackets). As the spring retaining brackets are brought into closer proximity with each other, the retaining band will contact the conical portions of the spring retaining brackets, forcing the same to expand about the circumference of each spring retaining bracket.

A slot located along the perimeter of the spring retaining bracket(s) permits this expansion and, as the retaining band imparts a force on the spring retaining brackets. By imparting this movement on the spring retaining bracket(s), the series of radially positioned “teeth” shown in FIG. 7 contact the interior wall of the handlebar (not shown in FIG. 7). As the knob and locking nut are further tightened, this contact occurs with greater force, and eventually secures the assembly to the handlebar. In this manner, the assembly shown in FIGS. 7-8 may be adjusted to accommodate a number of different pieces of equipment, including different sized grips and handlebars used in watersports and other sporting events.

The components described above are preferably comprised of steel, aluminum, steel alloy, aluminum alloy, graphite, metal alloy or equivalent, with the exception of the retaining band, which is preferably a rubber or similar synthetic material. In alternative embodiments, the materials may be modified to suit the particular application. In certain embodiments, the components may be comprised of stainless steel. The knob preferably comprises a gnurled or textured surface for improved purchase when tightening or loosening the knob, as a user's grip may be compromised due to the presence of water, oils, mud, debris, etc.

In one embodiment, two assemblies like the one shown in FIG. 7 may be joined to opposite ends of a handlebar or similar piece of equipment. In varying embodiments, the handlebar assembly of FIG. 7 may be sized differently to accommodate different sizes and types of equipment. In an alternate embodiment, the knob may comprise an aperture for accepting a tool, such as a standard Allens wrench, as shown in FIG. 8. Variations on the use of a tool, such as a screwdriver, wrench or similar apparatus are contemplated for use with the present invention.

The present disclosure also relates to the mounting of boots or similar equipment to a piece of equipment, such as a wakeboard of waterski. Turning now to FIGS. 9-14, in which reference characters denote various elements throughout the several views, one aspect of the present disclosure relates to a binding system comprising a plurality of adjustable, vertical teeth and which may further include a boot having at least a portion that may be secured to the plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a wakeboard or waterski base plate/chassis, mounting bracket and a wakeboard or water ski.

J. Wakeboard or Water Ski Binding/Boot

This structure is any device that a user would insert their foot into to be secured to a wakeboard or waterski and includes a base plate/chassis, as described and shown herein. FIGS. 9-14 demonstrate the nature of the disclosure and operation of the binding system, in particular the securing of a boot to the plurality of vertical, adjustable teeth.

A wakeboard or water ski binding/boot (10) comprises a shoe-like structure or any structure in which you can insert your foot such that this boot (10) and your foot may be bound, attached or secured to one another, and then secured to a wakeboard or water ski (30) having the binding system described herein. This device may also consist of a base plate/chassis (11) that provides the means for mounting and securing the boot (10) to the wakeboard or water ski (30).

This binding/boot (10) may be a shoe, sandal, sock, sleeve or boot, or anything similar object worn on the foot. It may also have straps, strings, laces, buckles or any devices used to tighten and secure the foot inside the binding/boot (10). The chassis/base plate (11) of the binding/boot (10) is typically attached permanently to the bottom of the binding/boot (10) shoe like structure, but is not limited to being permanently attached, and in one embodiment is not considered a separate apparatus from the boot (10). The base plate/chassis (11) holds the vertical engagement teeth (12) interface for securely attaching the binding/boot (10) to the wakeboard or waterski (30). The base plate/chassis (11) also has but does not require a base plate/chassis slot (13) for assisting a user in securing the base plate/chassis (11) to the wakeboard or waterski (30). Several variations of the elements in combination with each other, or with other elements described above, is expressly contemplated.

K. Mounting Bracket

The mounting bracket structure is used to secure the wakeboard or waterski binding/boot to the wakeboard or water ski. In a preferred embodiment, the mounting bracket (20) structure is used to secure the binding/boot (10) to the wakeboard or waterski (30) and has integrated teeth (21) aligned with and that join with the teeth on the binding/boot (10) to ensure that the bindings does not rotate.

The mounting bracket (20) can have many different shapes and can be made out of different materials as long as the mounting bracket has vertical teeth (21) that join with vertical engagement teeth (12) on the binding to complete the assembly. The mounting bracket (20) also has but does not require a male engagement tongue (22) that assists in securing the base plate/chassis (11) to the wakeboard or waterski mounting inserts (31).

L. Wakeboard or Water Ski

According to various embodiments described herein, any board or ski used for water sports activities in which the user mounts a wakeboard or waterski by using the bindings/boots is contemplated for use with the present invention. In other embodiments, any other apparatus (including snowboards, downhill or cross-country skis, skydiving boards, etc.) may be used in connection with the present disclosure.

In a preferred embodiment, a board or ski (including those used to ride across water) has mounting inserts (31), which assist in serving as a fastening system, and which are intergrated into the wakeboard or waterski (30) to accommodate the fasteners (40) and fastening of binding/boots (10) to the board (30).

The wakeboard or ski (30) can have many shapes, designs and be made of different materials. Typically, the board has a mounting system (31) that accommodates securing bindings/boots (10) to the board or ski (30). Additional elements of the binding system are also typical for the particular board the binding system is associated with, as described in further detail below.

M. Fastener

The fastener may be made of any suitable structure, but in a preferred embodiment is comprised of one or more threaded screws, which are used to securely tighten and complete the connection between the wakeboard or water ski binding/boot, mounting bracket and the wakeboard or water ski.

The fastener (40) is preferably inserted through the mounting bracket (20) to secure the binding/boot to the board. It is expressly understood that the fastener (40) is not limited to a screw, and can be of any other device known to one of ordinary skill in the art that would secure the mounting bracket (20) and base plate/chassis (11) to the wakeboard or water ski (30). Thus, while the fastener (40) is usually a threaded screw, it is not limited to having threads, and may vary in length and size, so long as it serves to fasten the binding/boot (10) to the board or ski (30). In a preferred embodiment, the fastener may be adjusted either by using a tool or by canter lever motion by hand.

N. Connections of Main Elements and Sub Elements of Invention

The fastener (40) is preferably inserted through the mounting bracket (20). The mounting bracket (20) and fastener (40) are then inserted into the engagement teeth (12) interface on the binding/boot (10), one on each side as depicted in the drawing figures. Then, this assembly is fastened to the wakeboard or water ski (30) using its mounting inserts (31).

O. Alternative Embodiments of Invention

Two mounting brackets (20) and fasteners (40) are typically used, one on each side of the boot/binding (10) base plate/chassis (11), to fasten the binding/boot (10) to the board (30). However, the system is not limited to having only two, and may have less than two or more than two without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. Thus, as long as the vertical engagement teeth (12) and engagement teeth (12) union is achieved to secure the boot/binding (40) to the board (30), the benefits of the binding system is achieved. The organization of the elements described herein is not limited to having the mounting brackets (20) on each side either, as long as the same vertical teeth union is achieved to secure the boot/binding (10) to the board (30).

P. Operation of Preferred Embodiment

Wakeboard or waterski boot/bindings (10) are thereby connected to a wakeboard or waterski (30) using an attachment system that is integrated into the bottom of the boot/binding in most cases, but are not limited to being integrated. In some cases the boot portion and attachment system are separate parts, which may form an assembly to complete the boot/binding that is to be attached to the board. In any case, the base plate or chassis portion of either style boot/binding contains an integrated adjustment system used for accomplishing two processes; attaching the boot/bindings to a wakeboard or waterski and also setting a desired position or adjusting the stance/position at which the user places his feet on the board. These processes may occur at the same time, or may be separate. These two processes are preferably accomplished by using additional mounting brackets and fasteners.

On the binding/boot base plate or chassis there are incremental teeth, notches or otherwise apparatus/indicia to permit the user to set a desired stance angle or boot position. In a preferred embodiment, this adjustment permits the boot to be positioned relative to the longitudinal axis of the board in a wide range of positions. In a preferred embodiment, this range encompasses approximately 60 degrees of movement from one extreme boot position to the other extreme boot position. In a most preferred embodiment, this range encompasses approximately 45 degrees of movement from one extreme position to the opposite extreme position.

In a preferred embodiment, there are also opposing teeth on the mounting brackets that mate in a male/female fashion with the teeth on the base plate/chassis portion of the boot/binding. These teeth, notches or otherwise are organized in a circular fashion on both the base plate/chassis so the user can rotate the binding/boot about a center point and then set the desired stance angle by placing the mounting bracket into desired tooth or notch while securing the boot/binding assembly to the wakeboard or waterski.

The fastener may be inserted into, on or through the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket and fastener are placed over, onto or otherwise joining with the base plate/chassis portion of the wakeboard or waterski boot/binding at the desired stance adjustment. This assembly of fasteners, mounting brackets and binding/boot are then secured to the wakeboard or waterski by inserting the fastener into the mounting inserts on the wakeboard or waterski and then each fastener is tightened to complete the secure bond between the wakeboard or waterski and the boot/binding assembly to keep the stance adjustment at the desired locations or angles without change or prolonged use.

In at least one embodiment, the teeth on both the base plate/chassis and the mounting brackets lay in a horizontal fashion so the peaks and valleys of the teeth, notches or otherwise lay horizontally stacked parallel to the surface of the board. The problem with this orientation is that the integrity of the assembly staying in place or at the desired set stance adjustment relies solely on fasteners staying completely tight. If the fasteners in this style assembly loosen slightly, the stance can change without notice and does not stay set at the desired adjustment because the mounting brackets slide up and over the peaks of the teeth to the next increment, which is not desired and can cause injury to the user if it changes drastically. In some cases they can skip very far across multiple teeth or increments and the stance angles can change drastically.

In an alternate embodiment, the teeth are turned or rotated 90 degrees, such that the peaks and valleys of the plurality of teeth are aligned vertically, not horizontally, or are sitting substantially perpendicular to the surface of the board. This orientation does not allow the boot/binding set stance adjustment to change even if the fasteners loosen and the integrity of the assembly staying at the set adjustment relies on the height of the teeth, notches or otherwise and the fact the assembly cannot move laterally because the fasteners are inserted into the mounting inserts of the wakeboard or waterski.

What has been described and illustrated herein is a preferred embodiment of the invention along with some of its variations. The terms, descriptions and figures used herein are set forth by way of illustration only and are not meant as limitations. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations are possible within the spirit and scope of the invention in which all terms are meant in their broadest, reasonable sense unless otherwise indicated. Any headings utilized within the description are for convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.

While various embodiment of the present disclosure have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure, as set forth in the following claims. For further illustration, the photographs and other materials included with the provisional applications from which this application claims priority are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

The foregoing discussion of the disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description for example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed disclosure requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the disclosure.

Moreover, though the present disclosure has included description of one or more embodiments and certain variations and modifications, other variations and modifications are within the scope of the disclosure, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge of those in the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It is intended to obtain rights which include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A handlebar assembly, comprising: a knob; a threaded stud; a non-threaded expansion retaining block comprising a first angled face; a threaded expansion retaining block comprising a second angled face; a handlebar; wherein the knob may be selectively coupled to the threaded stud, the non-threaded expansion retaining block and the threaded expansion retaining block to form a bar end assembly; wherein, once assembled, the first angled face of the non-threaded expansion retaining block contacts the second angled face of the threaded expansion retaining block; wherein the bar end assembly may be selectively positioned inside the handlebar and against an interior wall of the handlebar; and wherein the outer surface of the non-threaded expansion retaining block is selectively biased against the interior wall of the handlebar to tighten the bar end assembly against the handlebar.
 2. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the non-threaded expansion retaining block is selectively biased against the interior wall of the handlebar by rotation of the knob and threaded stud.
 3. A handlebar end assembly for selectively coupling to a handlebar, comprising: a knob comprising a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end comprising a barrel portion; a threaded shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end configured to be received by the barrel portion of the knob in a threaded engagement; a first spring retaining bracket having a longitudinal slot for expansion and contraction and capable of being received by the threaded shaft and comprising a plurality of teeth about an outer circumference of the first spring retaining bracket; a second spring retaining bracket having a longitudinal slot for expansion and contraction and capable of being received by the threaded shaft and comprising a plurality of teeth about an outer circumference of the first spring retaining bracket; an elastomeric retaining band configured to be placed around a portion of the first retaining bracket and a portion of the second retaining bracket; wherein the knob may be rotated in a clockwise manner relative to the threaded shaft to decrease the distance between the proximal end of the knob and the distal end of the threaded shaft, thereby expanding the first and second spring retaining brackets; wherein the plurality of teeth of the first and second spring retaining brackets are expanded, increasing the diameter of the outer circumference of the first and second spring retaining brackets; and wherein the elastomeric retaining band retains the first and second spring retaining brackets to the handlebar end assembly during expansion.
 4. The handlebar end assembly of claim 3 wherein the knob may be rotated counterclockwise manner to increase the distance between the proximal end of the knob and the distal end of the threaded shaft, thereby contracting the first and second spring retaining brackets.
 5. The handlebar end assembly of claim 4 wherein the assembly is received within an interior portion of a handlebar. 